*6* ANNIHILATOR on Tottenham.

Tottenham Hotspur are tied with Arsenal for second in the Premier League and can close the gap to league-leading Leicester to just two points with a win here. Swansea are a very poor team overall and should offer little resistance.

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Goalscoring - Only Aston Villa have scored fewer goals than Swansea's 24 and the Swans have mustered only 11 goals in 12 road games. Tottenham are the third highest scoring side in the league and they have a 23-9 goal-differential at home. 

2. Previous Meetings - Tottenham have never lost a Premier League game against Swansea sitting on seven wins and two draws. Swansea have lost 15 of 17 visits to White Hart Lane. 

3. X-Factor - Tottenham's Harry Kane has scored an amazing 15 goals in his last 17 league appearances.

Selection: This is a play on Tottenham (6*)

*10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on UNDER Arsenal/Manchester United.

Manchester United will host Arsenal at Old Trafford Sunday in this week's most anticipated game in the Premier League. The Gunners won the first meeting of the season 3-0 home in London, but I think goals will come at a premium for both teams this time around. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Man United's Tactics - Few teams in the league are playing at a slower pace than Manchester United as they seem to care more about ball retention than actually scoring goals. They're not easy to score on though with only 24 conceded goals in 26 Premier League games, Arsenal are one of only two teams with fewer conceded.  

2. Injuries - Louis Van Gaal's Manchester United side is plagued with injuries and could miss up to 14 first-team regulars for this clash. The striker options are few and far between as both Wayne Rooney and Anthony Martial are expected to miss out, leaving the team without a fit out-and-out striker. 

3. X-Factor - Arsenal have scored more than one goal in just one of their 23 Premier League matches at Old Trafford and they have just four goals in their last five games overall.

Selection: This is a play on ARSENAL@MAN U to go UNDER the total (10*)

*8* Total DOMINATION on UNDER Roma/Empoli.

"The Coach" will have his "Keys To The Game" for this selection posted shortly. Check back soon for more details.

*8* MASSACRE on Stoke.

Stoke City had lost three straight prior to a 3-1 win at Bournemouth in their last game two weeks ago. They're looking good to pick up another win as they host the Premier League-worst Aston Villa today. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Aston Villa vs. Top 10 Teams - The Villains have just four points in 13 games against the current top 10 in the table, while Stoke, currently 10th in the league, have just one win less than Man United in fifth.

2. Road Woes - Aston Villa are win-less with 10 defeats and four draws in their last 14 league and cup games on the road. They've scored 10 goals in 13 league games away from home this season.

3. X-Factor - Stoke have won four of the last five meetings. 

Selection: This is a play on Stoke City (8*)

*8* MASSACRE on Juventus.

Juventus defeated Napoli 1-0 last weekend to overtake them at the top of the Serie A by one point. They can consolidate that lead with a win at Bologna tonight, and this looks like a reasonable price on "the Old Lady". 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Juve's Defense - The visitors have kept a clean sheet in eight consecutive games and they've allowed a league-best 15 goals in 25 Serie A games this season.

2. Road Warriors - Juventus have won nine of their last 10 games on the road both league and cup games included. The lone away loss was a 1-0 setback at Sevilla in the Champions League and they boast the best road record in the Serie A by quite some margin. 

3. X-Factor - Juventus have won five straight head-to-head meetings, outscoring Bologna 10-2. 

Selection: This is a play on Juventus (8*)

*7* MASSACRE on Borussia Dortmund 

Borussia Dortmund will host FC Porto at Westfalenstadion for the first leg of their round of 32 tie in the Europa League Thursday. Porto are just entering this round of the competition as a step down after getting knocked out of the Champions League while Dortmund have had their eye on the prize from the get go. I think the home-team will take this tie a bit more serious, particularly at home. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Tactics - Porto are a very offensive minded team, which often can be their undoing on the road. They're not a team capable of sitting back to try and salvage a draw something that will be punished by the disciplined Germans. 

2. Home Cookin' - Dortmund are extremely strong home at Westfalenstadion with 18 wins, one draw and a loss in their last 20 games in front of their fanatic fans all competitions included. 

3. X-Factor - Porto have massive problems in defense ahead of this clash with both Maxi Pereira and Marcano expected to miss out.

Selection: This is a play on Borussia Dortmund (7*)

*8* MASSACRE on Real Madrid.

AS Roma will host Real Madrid home at Stadio Olimpico for the first leg of their round of 16 clash in the UEFA Champions League Wednesday. This will be Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane's first Champions League game in charge for the club since taking over from Rafael Benitez, and I think he'll kick it off with a win. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Vast Difference In Quality - No team has ever made it through to the last 16 with fewer points than Roma managed in Group E as they had just one win and three draws. Real Madrid on the other hand are one of only two sides still undefeated in the competition this season as they outscored opponents 19-3 while winning five of six games during the group stage.  

2. Cristiano Ronaldo & Karim Benzema - The Portuguese superstar has found the back of the net 19 times in his last 14 games while the Frenchman has scored 16 in his last 12 outings, including two hat-trick.

3. X-Factor - Roma manager Luciano Spalletti has indicated the will not sacrifice players to mark Ronaldo out of Wednesday's game. Huge mistake as Ronaldo will beat his defender 1-vs-1 just about every time. 

Selection: This is a play on Real Madrid (8*) 

*8* MASSACRE on Paris St. Germain on the 3-way line.

The reigning Premier League champions Chelsea FC have picked up pace after an extremely slow start to the season. They're undefeated under Guus Hiddink who took over as manager when Jose Mourinho got the can back in Decemeber, but I think they'll be in for a tough game against the French champions Paris St. Germain in the Champions League at Parc des Princes Tuesday.

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. PSG's Dominance in Ligue 1 - PSG are currently a staggering 24 points clear of second-placed Monaco in their domestic league, and manager Laurent Blanc could afford to leave several key players out of his starting lineup over the weekend. They're filled with confidence and with the league already in the bag, this is a perfect time to put all focus and energy on finally conquering the Champions League. 

2. Chelsea's Injury Woes - Chelsea will be without captain John Terry as well as his central defense partner Kurt Zouma for this game. A makeshift back-four is hardly ideal against a PSG team that has scored 13 goals in its last five games home at Parc des Princes. 

3. X-Factor - PSG have conceded only eight goals in their last 23 fixtures.

Selection: This is a play on Paris St. Germain (8*)

*8* Total MASSACRE on UNDER Liverpool/Aston Villa.

Premier League-worst Aston Villa will host a reeling Liverpool team home at Villa Park Sunday afternoon. Goal-scoring have been an issue for both teams lately, and I think we'll see a low-scoring contest. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Liverpool's Offensive Woes - The visitors are winless over their last five league and cup games with only a total of four goals scored in that span. They'll have strikers Daniel Sturridge, Christian Benteke and Divock Origi back from injuries, but they all probably need a couple of games to get up to speed. 

2. Previous Meetings - Liverpool have kept a clean sheet in five of their last seven league trips to Villa.

3. X-Factor - Aston Villa's 20 goals scored in 25 games is the lowest tally in the Premier League this season.

Selection: This is a play on Liverpool@Aston Villa to go UNDER the total (8*)

*8* Total DESTRUCTION on OVER 2.5 Leicester City/Arsenal.

Leicester City is sitting five points clear of Arsenal in the top spot in the English Premier table, and yet they are still an enormous underdog on the road at Emirates this Sunday. The Foxes are coming off three straight wins, scoring eight goals during that span. I think we'll see both teams find the net in this match, and my money is on the over. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1 Jamie Vardy - The Premier League's leading scorer has tallied three goals in his last three matches, and he scored a real cracker in the win over Liverpool. He and Riyad Mahrez have combined for 32 league goals and 13 assists this season.

2. Previous History - Leicester City has scored a total of eight goals in their last three Premier League matches, and they've scored in all of their last three meetings with Arsenal. The two teams have combined to score 12 goals in the last three meetings, and the most recent match was a 5-2 win for Arsenal. 

3. X-Factor - The Foxes have scored 26 goals in 13 away matches, five more than they've tallied at home. 

Selection: This is a play on the Foxes@Gunners to go OVER the total (8*)

*5* ANNIHILATOR on Chelsea.

Chelsea are undefeated since Jose Mourinho got the can and showed great morale as they salvaged a 1-1 draw against Manchester United Sunday with an extra time equalizer. Only six points separates Chelsea and Newcastle in the Premier League standings after an abysmal start to the season for Chelsea, but the difference in quality is much bigger than so and t become clear here at Stamford Bridge Saturday. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Road Woes - Newcastle have scored just six goals in 12 Premier League road games this season and they've lost each of their last five away from home all competitions. 

2. Diego Costa - The Chelsea striker has three goals in his last five games and should have no trouble to bully this weak Newcastle back-four around. 

3. X-Factor - Costa and the rest of the Chelsea players will be pleased to see that the Magpies goalkeeper Tim Krul is out injured as the Dutchman has robbed opponents of several points this season with his magnificent performances. The backup Rob Elliott is nowhere near as solid.

Selection: This is a play on Chelsea (5*)

*10* Total DOMINATION on OVER Athletico Bilbao/Real Madrid.

A win is of the essence for Real Madrid who have dropped four points back of Barcelona in Primera Division with a game in hand for the Catalans as well. They're extremely strong home at Santiago Bernabéu, and we should see an entertaining and high-scoring game when they host Athletico Bilbao Friday. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Home Cookin' - The Madrid crowd is hard to please and it's not enough for Real Madrid to win, they have to do it in style. So far this season Los Blancos have not disappointed averaging 3.75 goals scored per game home in Madrid while allowing just under one goal per game. That gives a total average of 4.58 which is well above the set total for this contest.

2. Gareth Bale's Injury - The Welshman is likely to miss the rest of the season with a calf injury, but perhaps that's a blessing in disguise as it will give Cristino Ronaldo (even more) time on the ball. Ronaldo has scored five goals in his last two games at Santiago Bernabéu but has been visibly annoyed having to share the immediate spotlight with Bale, and I think he'll elevate his game even further from now on.

3. X-Factor - Real Madrid won last season's meeting at Santiago Bernabéu 5-0 and none of the last seven meetings in Madrid have seen less than four goals scored. 

Selection: This is a play on Real Madrid/Athletico Bilbao to go OVER the total (10*)

*10* SUPER TOTAL on OVER 2.5 -121 Rayo Vallecano/Real Sporting.

Only one point separates Sporting Gijon and Rayo Vallecano near the bottom of Primera Division in Spain. I think we'll see a high-scoring contest between two teams desperate to book a precious win as a draw will do neither side any good. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Road Woes - Rayo Vallecano have conceded a league-worst 31 goals in 11 games away from home in the league this season and seven straight Rayo Vallecano road games have gone over this total. 

2. Previous Meetings - Each of the last six head-to-head meetings have gone over the set total. 

3. X-Factor - Rayo vallecano's Venezuelan striker Miku is red hot and will be looking to find the net for a fourth consecutive game. 

Selection: This is a play on Sporting Gijon/Rayo Vallecano to go OVER the total (10*)

*8* play Borussia Dortmund -180 on the three-way line.

Borussia Dortmund is coming off a 0-0 draw at Hertha Berlin, in a game that former Chelsea Manager Jose Mourinho was in attendance. Mourinho was the guest of Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke. Current BVB manager Thomas Tuchel says he's not worried about his future, but I expect a positive result at home versus Stuttgart is crucial.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Previous History - Dortmund comes in with a 4-1-1 record in it's last six matches, and it has out-scored opponent's 6-1 at home during that span. Stuttgart is 5-0-2 since it's last loss, which was a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Dortmund.

2. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang - The Dortmund forward leads the Bundesliga in scoring with 20 goals, and he tallied a pair of scores in the 4-1 win over Stuttgart in the last meeting between these two teams. He's found the net four times in five starts since.

3. X-Factor - Dortmund is undefeated in 11 matches versus Stuttgart since 2010.

Selection: This is a play on Borussia Dortmund (8*)

*10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on UNDER Bournemouth/Arsenal.

Arsenal will be looking to make up ground at the top of the table and can overtake Manchester City with a win here after the Citizens loss against Leicester last night. Goal scoring has been an issue lately though, and I think we'll see a low-scoring encounter at Dean Court. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Arsenal's Goalscoring Woes - The Gunners have failed to produce a goal in each of their last three Premier League games and were incredibly inefficient in front of the net in the 0-0 draw against Southampton earlier this week. 

2. Home Cookin' - Bournemouth have shut out two of their last three opponents at Dean Court. The last time these teams faced each other it was the Gunners winning 2-0 at home. 

3. X-Factor - Arsenal's Mesut Ozil has created 18 chances for his team-mates since new years without being credited with an assist. Another indication of Arsenal's inefficiency in front of goal lately. 

Selection: This is a play on ARS@BRN to go UNDER the total (10*) 

*10* SUPER WINNER on Leicester City +1.5 -155.

Premier League-leading Leicester will visit second-placed Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium Saturday afternoon. Leicester defeated Liverpool 2-0 Tuesday, but they're still not getting any respect from neither the public or the odds-makers and this looks like a great price on the visitors. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Road Warriors - Leicester have lost only one Premier League game on the road all season with seven wins and four draws. They've allowed only 13 goals in their 12 games away from home. 

2. Jamie Vardy - The 29 year old late bloomer scored only five goals in 34 games in the last campaign but is entering this round as the Premier League's top scorer with 18 goals in 24 contests. He tallied both in Tuesday's 2-0 win against Liverpool with one of the goals a front-runner for goal of the year. 

3. X-Factor - Manchester City have some defensive woes with both captain Vincent Kompany and central defense partner Eliaquim Mangala set to miss the game. 

Selection: This is a play on Leicester City (10*)

*10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Leicester City.

The Premier League-leading Leicester will host seventh-placed Liverpool at King Power Stadium Tuesday. Leicester have lost only two games in the league all season, and the value is undoubtedly on the home-team in this contest. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Injury Woes - Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson will return from a heel-problem, but I bet manager Jurgen Klopp is more concerned about his long-term absentees. Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Martin Skrtel and Philippe Coutinho are all more influential than Henderson and will be sorely missed. 

2. Liverpool's Defense - The Reds defeated Norwich 5-4 on Jan. 23 in their last Premier League game and no other of the top 11 teams in the league have allowed more goals than Liverpool. Leicester on the other hand have conceded just six goals in their last 10 Premier League games while being the second highest scoring team for the season. 

3. X-Factor - Leicester's Jamie Vardy is the top scorer in the Premier League this season and tallied one goal in a 3-0 win against Stoke in Leicester's last game. 

Selection: This is a play on Leicester (10*)

*10* SOCCER GAME OF THE MONTH on Everton.

Everton sits 12th in the English Premier League table, seven points ahead of Swansea. The Swans are in danger of being relegated to the 1st division, and they've won just twice in their last 12 Premier League matches. Swansea appears to be over-matched against Everton and Goodison Park.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Home Cookin' - Everton has a pair of wins and two draws in it's last four home games versus Swansea. The Swans are 1-3-6 on the road this season.

2. Swansea Goal Drought - The Swans have scored just four goals in their last nine matches versus Everton.

3. X-Factor - Everton's 22 year old striker Romelu Lukaku leads the club with 19 goals, and he's making his 100th start for the club.

Selection: This is a play on the Everton Toffees (10*)

Manchester City and Manchester United are first and third respectively in the Premier League with only eight goals each conceded over nine games. Those derby-games are usually high-scoring encounters though and we're likely to be in for another one Sunday afternoon. 
Here are my keys to the game: 
1. Man City's Offense - City manager Manuel Pellegrini has assembled one of the most fearful strike forces in European soccer and they've scored a Premier League best 24 goals this season. Sergio Aguero and David Silva have both been ruled out for this contest but City have more than enough cover, even for those two superstars. Non regular starter Raheem Sterling scored a hat-trick and back-up striker Wilfried Bony a brace when they defeated Bournemouth 5-1 last week. 
2. Trends - Eight of the last 10 head-to-head meetings have gone over the total and last season's meeting at Old Trafford saw Man Utd win 4-2.  
3. X-Factor - Man Utd's 19 year old striker Anthony Martial has scored five goals in nine games since coming over from Monaco. 
Selection: This is a play on MCFC@MUFC to go over the total (10*)

Tottenham are off back-to-back road draws but thrashed reigning Premier League champions Manchester City 4-1 their last game home at White Hart Lane. We're getting a great price on Spurs here when they host a Liverpool team in disarray. 
Here are my keys to the game: 
1. Liverpool's Manager Situation - Brendan Rodgers was sacked despite being able to salvage a 1-1 draw in the Liverpool derby against Everton on Oct 4. Who will take over the managerial responsibilities is still unclear, but whoever it is will have his work cut out for him clearing up the mess Rodgers has created during his time at the helm. 
2. Home Cookin' - Tottenham are still undefeated home at White Hart Lane this season with two wins and a pair of draws behind a 7-3 goal differential. 
2. X-Factor - Tottenham's playmaker Christian Eriksen missed the first couple of games of the season due to an injury and he's just getting back to his best. He scored a brace in the 2-2 draw at Swansea on Oct. 4 and is always a threat with his inch-perfect set-pieces. 
Selection: This is a play on Tottenham Hotspur (10*)

Both Liverpool and Manchester United have had a disappointing start to the Premier League season, but you can expect both clubs to get up for this game. There's still plenty of reason to be optimistic about the Red Devils after just four matches, but I'm afraid the same can't be said about Liverpool. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Previous History - The Red Devils are 6-3-1 in the last 10 meetings with Liverpool, and they've won four of the last five at Old Trafford. 

2. New Blood - Louis Van Gaal made headlines at the transfer window, signing Anthony Martial for a whopping 38 million British Pounds. There is plenty of speculation that the price was too high, but it gives Manchester the striker that they desperately needed. 

3. X-Factor - Daniel Sturridge was hoping to be fit enough to play in this match, but he's been ruled out as he hasn't fully recovered from a knee injury. This leaves the Reds even worse off as midfielder Phillipe Coutinho will serve a suspension after picking up a pair of yellow cards in the last match. 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United (10*) 

Arsenal suffered a shocking 2-0 home defeat to London rivals West Ham in their season-premiere but bounced back with a 2-1 win at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace last week. Liverpool meanwhile have started the campaign with back-to-back 1-0 victories, but the wins have been far from convincing despite facing weak opponents. I like Arsenal to show that they're a class above Liverpool here in Monday's lone Barclay's Premier League game.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Arsenal's Pace - Few teams in the Premier League can match Arsenal's pace up front and one thing is for certain; no one in Liverpool's back four can match the pace of Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Add a playmaker in Santi Cazorla behind them to feed the ball and you have a huge problem for Liverpool's slow centre-backs.   

2. Previous meetings - Arsenal have won three straight meetings at Emirates Stadium, outscoring Liverpool 8-2. They've lost just one of the last seven meetings overall.  

3. X-Factor - Liverpool's captain Jordan Henderson will miss the game and be replaced by Emre Can.  

Selection: This is a play on Arsenal (10*)

Liverpool opened the 2014/2015 campaign with an 1-0 victory at Stoke while AFC Bournemouth lost their first Premier League game ever 1-0 at home to Aston Villa. I like Liverpool to punish this inexperienced Bournemouth team home at Anfield Road Monday.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Home Cookin' - Liverpool are unbeaten in their opening home match in each of the last 11 Premier League seasons. The support they'll receive from "The Kop" here will be absolutely mental and their fans will do their utmost to help carry their beloved Liverpool to yet another home victory.   

2. Liverpool's Attack Force - The Reds struggled last season as they tried to replace Luis Suarez with the wild card Mario Balotelli while Daniel Sturridge spent most of the season injured. They've learned their lesson and brought in a proven Premier League compatible striker in Christan Benteke from Aston Villa. He's got it all, pace, strength, goals, you name it and he'll be a nice complement to attacking midfielders Adam Lallana and Coutinho (who bagged the winner against Stoke).  

3. X-Factor - Christian Benteke was held goalless in his Liverpool debut but has 11 goals in his last 12 Premier League appearances. 

Selection: This is a play on Liverpool (5*)

Manchester United defeated Tottenham 1-0 home at Old Trafford in their season-premiere while Aston Villa won by the same result at newly promoted Bournemouth. Odds are that Aston Villa will be involved in the relegation battle this season despite the win and I expect them to drop all the points to Man United Friday.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. The Teams Turnover - Aston Villa have lost three key-players during the summer in Christian Benteke, Fabian Delph and Ron Vlaar. They've not been able to replace them with players of similar quality while Man United have brought in the likes of Memphis Depay, Sebastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin. The only noteworthy loss for the visitors since last season is the unsuccessful Angel Di Maria who's been sold to Paris St. Germain.  

2. Previous History - Manchester United have won nine of the last 11 meetings and Aston Villa have just one win in 39 meetings during the Premier League era.  

3. X-Factor - Wayne Rooney and Memphis Depay combined for Man United's goal in the season-opener. Expect the duo to wreak havoc around the Aston Villa box.  

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United (5*)

Manchester City failed to defend their Premier League title last season as they finished second, eight points back of the champions Chelsea. They'll open the 2015/2016 campaign with a game at the Hawthorns against West Bromwich Albion who secured a mid-table position last season. Man City have won five of their last six season openers and I like them to pick up the three points here.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. City's Offense - Man City spent nearly $76 Million on their club record signing Raheem Sterling from Liverpool over the summer. His pace and directness will add a new dimension to their already fearsome attack that scored a league-best 83 goals last season.

2. Situational - Man City have won seven straight league meetings outscoring WBA 19-5 and they won last season's meeting at the Hawthorns 3-1. David Silva has scored in three of his last four appearances against the Baggies.

3. X-Factor - David Silva has scored in three of his last four appearances against the Baggies while Sergio Aguero has nine goals in his last seven Premier League appearances overall.

Selection: This is a play on Manchester City (10*)

Manchester United are coming into the 2015/2016 season looking to improve on a fourth place from last season. They'll open this campaign with a game against Tottenham Hotspur home at Old Trafford and I like the hosts to claim this contest.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Manchester United's Summer Cleaning - Man U's newly appointed manager Louis Van Gaal spent almost a third of last season trying to figure out his squad at hand, experimenting with both personnel and formation. As a result Man U struggled in the early months but they finished the season strong and no less than 11 players have left the club over the summer with five fresh faces coming in. Van Gaal knows his squad by now and the players left at the club know they have his vote of confidence.  

2. Man U's Central Midfield - Arguably the clubs Achilles heel since Sir Alex Ferguson retired but LVG has certainly strengtended that position during his short period at the club. Michael Carrick will now be battling with stars such as Sebastian Schewinsteiger, Morgan Schneiderlin, Ander Herrera and Danny Blind for three central midfield spots instead of sharing a two-man center midfield with the likes of Tom Cleverley and Anderson.  

3. X-Factor - Memphis Depay has joined Man U from PSV Eindhoven where the 21 year old finished the season as the league's top scorer with 22 goals despite playing on the wing. He's a top rated prospect and has looked lively in the pre-season games.  

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United (8*)

Hosts Chile will take on Argentina in the Copa America final 2015. Argentina will look to bounce back from a loss to Germany in the World Cup final last summer, and I think it will and decide this game within the first 90 minutes.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Argentina's Firepower - " La Albiceleste" destroyed Paraguay 6-1 in its semifinal, and that without Lionel Messi even finding the net. Angel Di Maria scored a brace and Sergio Aguero netted one and with Carlos Tevez and Gonzalo Higuain available on the bench as well I think it's fair to say that no other country has as many world-class strikers at its disposal. 

2. Home Disadvantage? - The home-fans are demanding the trophy and will urge their team to push forward. Perhaps this will work to Argentina's advantage though with their speedy front-three perfectly suited to hit teams on the counter.  

3. X-Factor - For all Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi's success with his club team Barcelona he's still to win a title with Argentina. He's the pure definition of an x-factor, and even if he don't score himself he'll open up space for his team-mates with his sheer presence in and around the box.  

Selection: This is a play on Argentina (10*)

The Women's World Cup is underway, and the host nation Canada will play New Zealand tonight in Edmonton. The Canadian women are a heavy favorite, and I don't think they will disappoint in front of home fans. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Previous History - These teams last played a competitive match in 2000, and Canada won that game 2-1. They've since met in nine friendlies, and the Canadians won six with a pair of draws. 

2. Current Form - Canada is coming off a win over China in their first game of the tournament, while the Kiwis has suffered six straight losses. 

3. X-Factor - This Canadian squad took home a bronze medal in the London Olympics, but felt they deserved better in a controversial loss to the United States. They have plenty of reason to be confident, as expressed by head coach John Herdman: "Very clearly, we're a better team ... And I think quality for quality, we're a better team than New Zealand."

Selection: This is a play on Canada (8*)

Aston Villa will close out the English Premier League season hosting Burnley at home at Villa Park in Birmingham today. Burnley, sitting second to last in the standings, will be relegated no matter the outcome of this game, and a win would be of little significance for Aston Villa's table position as well. The hosts have the club's biggest game in ages coming up next week though, and I like them to come out firing on all cylinders in this contest.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Situational - Aston Villa is coming off its worst game of the season when it lost 6-1 at Southampton last weekend. With the FA Cup final against Arsenal coming up next it's important for the team to bounce back with a big performance here. Tim Sherwood has indicated that no senior players will be rested, and each player taking the field will be poised to make their case for a spot in the starting XI against Arsenal as well.  

2. Road Woes - Burnley has lost seven of its last 10 away from home and has scored just 13 goals over 18 road-games on the season. Aston Villa meanwhile has won three straight at home all competitions included.   

3. X-Factor - Aston Villa's top-scorer Christian Benteke has 11 goals in his last 10 Premier League games.  

Selection: This is a play on Aston Villa (10*)

The Tottenham Hotspur are hosting Hull City Tigers for their last home-game of the season. Both sides are coming off back-to-back defeats, but I think the home-team will run away with this game.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Hull's Offensive Woes - The Tigers have scored just five goals in their seven Premier League matches against Tottenham and never more than once in a match. They've been shut out in three of their last five on the road and have failed to score in 15 of their 36 league matches this season. 

2. Harry Kane - The youngster has scored just once in six games since making his England debut on 27 March, but keep in mind that his goals and assists have won Spurs 26 points this season, more than any other player in the division. He scored the equalizer when Tottenham defeated Hull 2-1 on the road earlier in the season. 

3. X-Factor - Hull has never won a Premier League game in the month of May (D3, L8). 

Selection: This is a play on the Tottenham Hotspur

Hull City will host Burnley in a game between two of the bottom-teams in the English Premier League. Burney's sitting dead last in the standings and a loss today would seal it's relegation to the Championship division. Hull is currently one spot and and point above the relegation zone, and I expect the Tigers to make the most of their home-advantage here and walk away with three vital points.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Recent Form - Hull had defeated Liverpool and Crystal Palace over two straight games before losing 3-1 to Arsenal Monday. It definitely gave the Gunners a scare though taking the lead just before half-time and we've seen Steve Bruce's men play some good football of late. Burnely on the other hand has lost four straight and has lost seven of its last 10, picking up just five points. 

2. Road Woes - Burnley has won just one game away from home in the league all season, losing 11 of 17 match-ups. Its 12-32 goal-differential is nothing but atrocious and it is win-less over its last 12 away from home, losing nine. 

3. X-Factor - Hull's tricky wing-back Ahmed Elmohamady has assisted both of the Tigers two goals over the last two games. 

Selection: This is a play on Hull City Tigers (10*)

Leicester City will host Newcastle United at the King Power Stadium for an early kick-off in the English Premier League Saturday. The hosts are coming in red hot while the visitors are ice-cold, and I think we're getting a fair price on the Foxes in this contest.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Different Run Of Form - Leicester had won four straight games before falling 3-1 at Chelsea Wednesday. It was not a clear cut Chelsea win though, Leicester had the lead coming into half-time and really took the game to the soon-to-be-crowned Premier League champions. Newcastle on the other hand has lost seven straight and four consecutive away from home without even scoring a single goal. 

2. Situational - Leicester is despite its recent surge still highly involved in the relegation battle sitting just one point above Sunderland in 18th. We find Newcastle in 14th, four points ahead of Leicester but with only four games to go it is all but guaranteed to play Premier League football next season as well.  

3. X-Factor - Mark Albrighton scored Leicester's goal in the 3-1 defeat Wednesday and has really thrived deployed at the wing-back position of a recently introduced 3-5-2 system at the club.  

Selection: This is a play on Leicester City (10*)

Bayers Leverkusen will host Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League tie Wednesday, and the German side has been in terrible form of late. After only managing one win in their last five Bundesliga matches, Leverkusen sits sixth in the German League. The Spaniards are the favorite here, and well worth the price in my opinion.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Previous History - Atletico has won five straight Champions League knockout round matches versus German clubs, and has only suffered one loss in their last 10 in Europe's most prestigious competition.

2. Injuries - Leverkusen will be missing several key players due to suspension as well as injuries. We know Omer Toprak and Robbie Kruse will not be available, and the status of Lars Bender and Tin Jedvaj is in doubt.

3. X-Factor - Antoine Griezmann comes in on top form, with 11 goals in his last 13 appearances, and Atletico has only lost once this season when the Frenchman has scored.

Selection: This is a play on Atletico Madrid

(8*)

Tottenham is coming fresh off another successful cup tie, advancing to the next round of the Capital One Cup at the expense of Championship side Sheffield United Thursday. Today they'll face a fellow Premier League side in the FA Cup, but I think the result will be the same and Tottenham will send Leicester City packing as losers. 

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Priorities - It is quite obvious that the Spurs are aiming for a Cup title this season. They're still in each three cups their competing in (Europa League, Capital One Cup, FA Cup) and have if anything rested players in league games rather than the cup games. Leicester is dead last in the Premier League, and I can't see how cup distractions could be a priority. 

2. Home Cookin' - Tottenham is undefeated over its last 10 games in all competitions at White Hart Lane, dropping points only twice. Leicester on the other hand has lost seven of its last 10 away from home.  

3. X-Factor - The Spurs playmaker Christian Eriksen has eight goals in 22 caps so far this season. He's showing no signs of slowing down, and netted the 88th minute game winner against Sunderland a week ago. 

Selection: This is a play on the Tottenham Hotspur (10*)

Hull City is currently residing at 18th place in the table, only two points clear of last placed Leicester. It is coming to London and Upton Park today to face a West Ham side that has cooled of a bit lately after a sparkling start. I think the Hammers will get back on track here with a win over the lowly Tigers. 

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Hull's Trouble To Find The Net - Only Sunderland has scored less than Hull and its 20 goals in the top flight this season. It won't help that top striker Nikica Jelavić is out for this contest with a knee injury. 

2. Dominance In The Air - With a strike force made up of powerhouses like Andy Carroll, Enner Valencia, Carlton Cole and Diafra Sakho there is little wonder that the Hammers have scored more goals on headers than any other team in the league this season. 

3. X-Factor - West Ham has won all of its last five match-ups at home against Hull. 

Selection: This is a play on West Ham (8*)

Sunderland is a as usual sitting near the bottom of the table, currently only three points clear of last placed Leicester. It has won only three games all season long and are off back-to-back Premier League losses. Tottenham is in the hunt for a Champions League spot, and dropping points home to relegation candidates won't cut it if they want to realize that dream. I don't think they'll slip up here, and I'm backing the home team.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Harry Kane - Few players have impressed me as much as Tottenham's young striker Harry Kane this season. He's making his terrific name justice, with his play resembling of a hurricane at full speed. He's mixing youthful energy with a mature head, and has been prolific in front of goal tallying eight strikes over 21 games (11 starts) with six goals over his last six games. He was rested in the FA Cup win against Burnley Thursday and we can expect to see another fear-less performance from the 21 year old today.

2. Battle Of The Midfield - Sunderland has two of its workhorses at the center of the park out with Liam Bridcutt suspended and Lee Cattermole injured. Who will close down the Spurs playmaker Christian Eriksen I don't know, and apparently Sunderland doesn't either with Eriksen scoring in both his previous match-ups with the Black Cats.

3. X-Factor - There's no need to turn of the telly if the Spurs goes a goal down, they've recovered a league high 12 points from losing positions in the Premier League this season.

Selection: This is a play on Tottenham (8*)

League leading Chelsea bounced back after getting thrashed 5-3 at Tottenham two weeks ago with a comfortable 2-0 win against Newcastle last week. Today's opponent Swansea is win-less over its last three in the Premier League, and I think the visitors are well worth the price here.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Wilfried Bony - The 26 year old from Ivory Coast has been Swansea's best player by a mile, tallying nine of its xxx goals this season. The only problem is, he's not a Swansea player anymore as he's joined the ranks of Manchester City. Swansea got a boatload of cash for him, but has had no time to find a replacement yet.

2. Recent Meetings - The Blues have won all of the last four meetings, outscoring the Swans 8-2.

3. X-Factor - Diego Costa is leading the league with his 15 goals and was on target against Newcastle last week. He had a hat-trick when Chelsea won the reverse fixture at home to Swansea 4-2.

Selection: This is a play on Chelsea (7*)

West Ham and Everton will square off in a FA Cup third-round replay, as Romelu Lukaku managed an extra-time equalizer in the leg a week ago. Everton was lucky to get a draw, and I think the home team will finish them off today.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Injuries - Roberto Martinez could be missing as many as seven players due to injuries for this contest. Everton does not have the biggest squad depth to begin with, and will play its sixth game since Christmas and third in six days. This will take its toll on a roster that has to focus its priorities on pulling away from the relegation zone in the Premier League. 

2. Home Cookin' - Everton has lost five consecutive games away from home, getting outscored 11-3. West Ham is 6-2-2 over its last 10 at Upton Park. 

3. X-Factor - Andy Carroll has made a significant impact since returning from an injury and has four goals over 11 appearances for the season. He was on target when West Ham drew 1-1 at Swansea Saturday, and I think he'll be too much to handle for Everton's back-four today.  

Selection: This is a play on West Ham United (10*)

Two of the top teams in the English Premier League will clash here as third placed Manchester United is hosting fourth placed Southampton. Only one point separates the two sides, but expect the Red Devils to pull away with a win this afternoon.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Home Cookin' - Only Chelsea and its perfect 10-0-0 home record has done better at home grass than Manchester United this season. Louis Van Gaal's men lost the season opener to Swansea at Old Trafford, but have since dropped only two points going 8-0-1 over their last nine at home in the league. United have won five straight at home, outscoring opponents 13-2.  

2. The Real United - United have been plagued with injuries all season long, but only winger Ashley Young is missing for this contest. The competition within the squad is fierce, and it will be interesting to see how Van Gaal sets up the team with virtually all players available for the first time this season. One thing is for sure, with this many options no one can afford to slack off, they know they'll be subbed before half-time! 

3. X-Factor - Angel Di Maria made a comeback in the FA Cup win against Yeovil one week ago. He came off the bench with 20 minutes to go and scored the 2-0 on the counter. He's pretty much the definition of a x-factor as he can win games on his own with his electrifying pace, agility and flair. 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United (10*)

Arsenal is sitting sixth in the table, still well within reach of qualifying for the Champions League. To accomplish that this is the kind of games it needs to win though, facing a mid-table team at home. Stoke is per usual stuck in no man's land 11th in the standings with no fear of relegation or hope of a top spot. Expect Arsenal to get the job done here.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Home Cookin' - Arsenal has lost only one of its last 27 at the Emirates, a 2-1 loss against Mancehster United. It is off five consecutive wins all competitions included in front of the home-fans, outscoring opponents 11-2. Stoke has dropped four of its last seven away from home. Trips to Arsenal has not ended well over recent season's with Stoke losing 12 straight meetings. 

2. Comebacks - The Gunners midfield will be bolstered with the comebacks of Mesut Özil and Aaron Ramsey. Their creativity has been missed of late and expect to see them set up striker Oliver Giroud who is back from suspension.   

3. X-Factor - Alexis Sanchez has scored in back-to-back home games. Watch him terrorize Stoke's static back-four with his speed today. 

Selection: This is a play on Arsenal (5*)

The reigning Premier League Champs Manchester City is tied with Chelsea for the league lead heading into today's game against Everton at Goodison Park. The home team had aspirations for a Champions League spot but is way off pace, only four points above relegation instead. Everton has performed poorly all season long, and City is simply too strong. 

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Everton's slump - The Toffees are off four consecutive Premier League losses, and only an extra-time goal from Romelu Lukaku saved them from being knocked out of the FA Cup by West Ham mid-week. Their defense is in shambles, not keeping a clean sheet for 10 straight games. 

2. Road Warriors - Man City is the best road team in the league, winning seven of their games outside of Manchester losing only one and their 24-10 goal differential speaks for itself. They've won four straight on the road, and won last season's meeting in Everton 3-2.  

3. X-Factor - The visitors could have three key players back from injury here as Captain Vincent Kompany and strikers Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko are included in the squad again. 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester City (10*)

We're one game more than half-way through the Premier League season as we find Liverpool sitting at eighth place in the league, nine points ahead of 14th placed Sunderland. It's been a somewhat disappointing first half for the visitors who were fighting for the league title last season. They've looked fairly good of late though, and I expect a similar performance that saw them defeat Sunderland 3-1 in last season's clash at the Stadium Of Light.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Situational/Motivational - A realistic goal for Liverpool coming into this season must have been a Champions League spot. They're currently seven points off fourth placed Tottenham, and you can not afford to give away points against teams on the bottom half. Brendan Rodgers knows this as well as anyone, and we should see a fired up Liverpool team carry their momentum from a recent run of games that has seen them go undefeated over six straight games all competitions. 

2. Road Warriors - Liverpool has won four of its last five away from home, with the lone loss coming at Manchester United. Sunderland has won only one home game in the English Premier League this season, losing two of its last three. 

3. X-Factor - The Merseyside icon Steven Gerrard has announced that he will leave the club at the end of the season. He scored twice as Pool advanced in the FA Cup mid-week, showing he will give it all for the club he loves till the bitter end.  

Selection: This is a play on Liverpool (5*)

Two Premier League sides will clash in the FA-cup today as Burnley is hosting the Tottenham Hotspur. Burnley is sitting second to last in the Premier League, and the cup can surely not be a priority for a side struggling to stay in the top flight. I think the visitors form and squad depth should see them through here. 

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Hot Spurs - The Spurs have won five of their last six and are undefeated over the same span. They shocked Chelsea in a 5-3 win three days ago and have played brilliant football of late.  

2. Trophy Aspirations - Tottenham is currently sitting fifth in the Premier League. It is still 12 points behind league-leading Chelsea though, and winning the league must seem far-fetched even for the most optimistic Tottenham supporter. The FA cup on the other hand is a trophy well within its reach. 

3. X-Factor - Burnley' Captain Jason Shackell is injured and will miss the game. 

Selection: This is a play on the Tottenham Hotspur (5*)

Stoke City is hosting the West Bromwich Albions as both teams prepare for their second game of football within a 48 hours span. The home team is coming off an inspiring win at Everton, and I like their chances of making it two consecutive wins today.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Stoke's Pace - The Potters have a reputation of playing old fashioned English football, hoofing the ball towards a big striker, in Stoke's case Peter Crouch. While that certainly is one option, it's not their only. Stoke started the 1-0 win against Everton with a front-four consisting of Arnautovic, Krkic, Walters and Diouf. Those players have pace completely unmatched by the Albions ageing defense. 

2. Road Woes - West Brom has lost two on the bounce away from home and only picked up eight points over eight road games this season. They are a notoriously poor road team, winning only five games outside of the Hawthornes over the last two seasons.  

3. X-Factor - Questions were raised when Bojan Krkic shocked everyone this summer leaving sunny Barcelona for cold and rainy Stoke. How would a tiny magician like Bojan fit into Stoke's way of playing? He has silenced everyone with his skills and was the one netting the winner against Everton.   

Selection: This is a play on Stoke City (5*)

Louis Van Gaal has finally got his Manchester United side firing at all cylinders after a slow start to the season. They're coming off five consecutive wins as they'll host host their arch-rival, Liverpool, at Old Trafford today. This is a completely different Liverpool team than the successful one we saw last season, and I'm looking at the home team to continue their winning ways.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Revenge - Liverpool won both Premier League meetings last season and humiliated United in front of their own home fans winning 3-0 at Old Trafford. United's of that time manager David Moyes proclaimed Liverpool was the favorite heading into the game, and the players responded as such. Louis Van Gaal is of a different breed, there is no way he will say his team is second to none, and I expect the United players to be pumped up to restore order and show who really is the better of the two teams.  

2. Home Cookin' - Manchester United has the second best home record in the Premier League this season, second to only the unbeaten Chelsea. United has won six games, losing only one of their eight at Old Trafford with the loss coming against Swansea on opening day.  

3. X-Factor - Liverpool got knocked out of the Champions League after a 1-1 draw against Basel at home midweek. Can the players recharge their batteries after such a letdown? 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United (10*)

Arsenal is coming to West Bromwich to take on the Albions in Saturday's early Premier League game. Both teams are coming off two consecutive losses in the league, but the visitors should be able to take this contest down due to their sheer superiority in quality.

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Same Result - Different Way - While it is true that both teams have lost two in a row in the Premier League, they've done so in different way. Arsenal has dominated both its losses and Manchester United was incredibly lucky to beat the Gunners last week. Also, Arsene Wenger's men came back strong right away defeating a good Borussia Dortmund side in the Champions League mid-week. West Bromwich has been outplayed over their two most recent games, losing both 2-0.

2. Home Woes - West Bromwich has only one win over six games at the Hawthornes this season. That win came against Burnley who are sitting second last in the table.  

3. X-Factor - Alexis Sanches has eight goals and two assists over his first 10 Premier League games for Arsenal. He is almost the definition of a X-factor, always looking for creative solutions and being more than capable of winning games on his own. 

Selection: This is a play on Arsenal (5*)

Stoke City is coming to White Hart Lane to take on the Totttenham Hotstpur Sunday. They're win-less over their last three games all competitions, and I like the price we get on an in-form Tottenham team today.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Recent Form - Tottenham is high on confidence at the moment, winning all of its last three games and four of its last five in all competitions. Stoke is 1-3-1 over its last five, and has lost the last three meetings with Tottenham. 

2. Road Woes - Stoke won only three games outside of the Brittania last season. The Potters have started this season in a similar fashion and are 1-2-2 on the road this year and have lost their two most recent on the road.   

3. X-factor - Harry Kane is still looking for his first Premier League start, scoring one goal over six appearances as a substitute. He has been given the nod in the Europa League though, were he has tallied five goals over four starts. He scored in Europa midweek, and is likely to lead the Tottenham offense tonight as Emmanuel Adebayor is nurturing and injury and Roberto Soldado is ice cold.   

Selection: This is a play on Tottenham (8*)

Liverpool is coming off two consecutive defeats as they will host Chelsea at Anfield Road this afternoon. The last time these two teams met was at the end of last season when Steven "Slippy-G" Gerrard slipped and opened up for Demba Ba to get the match-winning goal, which turned out to give the Premier League title to Manchester City. Liverpool will be looking for revenge today, but I seriously doubt they''ll get it as Chelsea is unbeaten in their 16 games over all competitions this season and simply superior in all areas, both on the pitch and on the sideline.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Coach vs. Coach - Jose Mourinho is widely recognized as one of the brightest football minds there is. He rarely gets the tactic wrong and is not afraid to sacrifice any of his big stars for the greater good of the team. Brendan Rodgers was hailed all over England for the way Liverpool played last season, but he has failed miserably tactically in most games this season and it looks like he just got bailed out by Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez last season as the duo scored a ridiculous amount of goals together. Neither of those two players will enter the field for this encounter (Sturridge injured, Suarez sold).  

2. Squad vs. Squad - Liverpool sold their best player Luis Suarez to Barcelona during the summer for a heft fee. They invested those money in a bunch of mediocre players such as Mario Balotelli, Adam Lallana and Emre Can and without strengthening up their shaky defense. Chelsea reinforced their already strong squad from last season with Spaniards Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa. They have delivered from the get go, and Chelsea are looking like a very balanced team without any weaknesses.   

3. X-factor - Chelsea won both meetings last season, and we have to go back to 2012 to find the last Liverpool win.  

Selection: This is a play on Chelsea (8*)

Tottenham Hotspur will host Newcastle United at White Hart Lane Sunday. The visitors picked up their first win of the season last weekend as they battled down newly promoted Leicester at home, but I expect them to get back to their losing ways today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Newcastle Injuries - Two of Newcastle's key players, goalmachine Papiss Cisse and midfielder beast Cheick Tiote are doubtful for this encounter. Even if they make it back in time they will most likely not be able to play at full capacity.  2. Tottenham's Squad Depth - The Londoners played in the Europa League Thursday, thrashing Asteras Tripolis 5-1. Normally teams who play in Europe will struggle in the league, with Liverpool being a prime example this season. Tottenham has a very deep squad though, and replacing a few players is not much of a concern. Offensive midfielder Christian Eriksen may be an exception, but he and Andros Townsend were rested midweek and both will be fresh ready to run riot against a static Newcastle defense.  3. X-factor - Eric Lamela scored a rabona goal (Youtube it!) from the edge of the box in the midweek 5-1 win. The 22 year old struggled last season with injuries, but is finally able to show off his qualities this year Selection: This is a play on Tottenham Hotspur (5*)

Southampton will host Stoke for a game of Saturday soccer at St Mary’s today. The home team made headlines all over the soccer world as they defeated Sunderland 8-0 at home last weekend, and I think they look good to pick up three more points today.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Southampton's Defense - Mauricio Pochettino introduced a high pressing game that took opponents by surprise last season. Pochettino left for Tottenham during the summer, but new manager Ronald Koeman has kept building on the same mentality with great results. Southampton has conceded the least goals of all teams in the English Premier League this season, only allowing their opponent find the net five times over eight games.    

2. Home cookin' - The Saints are entering this contest undefeated at home in the Premier League this season, winning three and drawing one behind an amazing 14-1 goal differential. Of course the amount of goals scored is inflated by last weekends results, but only one conceded is very impressive indeed. 

3. X-factor - Keep an eye on Southampton's #11 Dusan Tadic, who has one goal and seven assists in eight games this season. He assisted four of the eight goals against Sunderland. 

Selection: This is a play on Southampton (5*)

Sunderland is coming off one of the worst performances in the club's history as it was crushed at Southampton last weekend, walking off the pitch as 8-0 losers. It won't be any easier as Arsenal comes to Stadium of Light for a visit, and another Sunderland loss is in the cards today.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Difference In Morale - Arsenal showed great determination midweek as they scored two goals in overtime to complete a comeback against Anderlecht in the UEFA Champions League. The fact that Sunderland lost their last game 8-0 says a lot of the state of their squad. Three or four goal losses are rare, eight will just never happen unless there is something seriously wrong within the club.  

2. Recent History - The Gunners won both meetings big last season, 4-1 at home and 3-1 here in Sunderland. Arsenal has since improved their squad with Alexis Sanchez and Danny Welbeck, while Sunderland has pretty much the same squad.  

3. X-factor - Keep an eye on speedy Danny Welbeck who has two goals and one assist since coming over from Manchester United.  

Selection: This is a play on Arsenal (5*)

Standard Liege will host Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League's "little brother", the UEFA Europa League Thursday. Sevilla is currently holding down 2nd place in the tough La Liga ahead of powerhouses like Real and Atletico Madrid, while St. Liege is struggling in the much weaker Belgian Jupiler League, sitting 12th out of 16 teams. The hosts are having trouble both on and off the pitch, and I think Sevilla is looking good to go back to Spain with three points.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. A Team In Disarray - The home team had its last game suspended in the 89th minute as furious fans started ripping their own home stadium apart, throwing seats and fencing on to the pitch as their beloved St. Liege was heading towards a third consecutive loss. The manager resigned shortly after, and their caretaker manager, former midfielder Ivan Vukomanovic, does not even have a UEFA pro license to coach.  

2. A Chance For a Title - Sevilla is doing very well in La Liga so far, but not even they can believe they have a shot at ending the season ahead of both Real Madrid and Barcelona. This tournament only contains "the best of the rest" though, and Sevilla is definitely in the top echelon here. A win tonight and they can basically start looking toward the next stage in the competition.   

3. X-factor - Colombian Carlos Bacca has scored six goals in eight games for the Spaniards in La Liga this season and scored the opener in Sunday's 2-0 win against Elche.  

Selection: This is a play on Sevilla (5*)

Liverpool will host the reigning UEFA Champions League Champs Real Madrid at Anfield Road in a Group B clash Wednesday. The visitors have started their title defending season in style, sitting top of the group after two consecutive wins with a combined 7-2 goal differential. The home team suffered something that must be described as a shock defeat their last CL game, as they came up short in a 1-0 defeat at Basel, I think they will find it even harder to keep up with the Spaniards. 

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Liverpool's Shaky Defense - We could all see them struggle at the back last season despite coming second in the English Premier League. They conceded 50 goals over 38 Premier League games, nine more than any other club in the top five. They have not started this season any better, allowing 12 goals over eight league games. It's almost a scary thought that they will be up against a Real Madrid team who scored 104 goals over their 38 league games last season and have 30 in their first eight this season.  

2. Cristiano Ronaldo - The Portuguese's goal/game ratio is ridiculous this season (as every season), scoring 15 goals in eight league matches and he has found the net in 10 straight games overall. 

3. X-factor - Brendan Rodgers is a great man-man manager, but he's not what you would call tactically astute. Real Madrid will score at will on the counter if Liverpool tries to play their usual high paced style. 

Selection: This is a play on Real Madrid (5*)

West Brom will host Manchester United at the Hawthorns as we conclude round eight of the English Premier League. The visitors are coming off two consecutive wins, and I don't think the Baggies have what it takes to stop them from picking up another victory tonight. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Angel Di Maria - The 26 year old Argentinian had to play second fiddle to Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, but at United he is the main man and was trusted with the legendary #7 shirt. So far he has proved himself worthy, tallying an impressive three goals and three assists over his first five games.

2. Injuries - Manchester United "only" has four players on their injury list right now, which is quite unusual for them. Only the suspended Wayne Rooney will be missing from the players who should be in their strongest starting XI, and that might be a blessing in disguise as Juan Mata can come in and dominate at the top of the midfield diamond instead. West Brom will most likely be missing their captain Chris Brunt due to injury, but unlike United they don't have good cover for their starting players. 

3. X-factor - David De Gea made some amazing saves in the 2-1 win against Everton last weekend. I don't see how WBA's mediocre offense will be able to outsmart him in the form he is at. 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United (5*)

The Czech Republic are tied at the top of Group A with Iceland, as they'll face Kazakhstan Monday. Kazakhstan is coming off a loss at the Netherlands, and this home game won't be an easy one either.  

Here are my keys to the game:  

1. Recent form - The visitors is coming off two consecutive wins, beating both Turkey and Holland. Kazakhstan is nowhere near the quality of those two teams, and only the Czechs themselves stands between them and the three points here.  

2. Possession  - Kazakhstan had only 23% of the possession in the 3-1 loss against the Netherlands three days ago. They managed to score on their only attack, and they will be constantly under pressure here as well. Sooner or later a crack in the defense will expose itself, and then the Czech's are clinical.  

3. X-factor - Tomas Rosicky might be a fringe player at Arsenal, but in the national team he's the playmaker in the no. 10 role. He holds the key to unlock the Kazakhstan defense today.  

Selection: This is a play on the Czech Republic (5*) 

Aston Villa have started the season strong, sitting in sixth place after six rounds of the English Premier League. They've lost both their last two games 3-0 against Chelsea and Arsenal though, and another big loss is in the cards as they'll be up against yet another top team today. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Midfield mismatch - Manchester City's midfield consists of two powerhouses in Yaya Touré and Fernandinho. Villa will most likely try to combat them with three central midfielders in Cleverley, Westwood and Delph. That means someone else will be left over and little magician David Silva is deadly if you give him even an ounce of space. 

2. Trends - Man City have lost only one of their last 16 games on the road in the Premier League, and they've scored at least two goals in 12 of their last 14 league games.

3. X-factor - Former Chelsea player Frank Lampard has scored 13 Premier League goals against Aston Villa in his career. The veteran midfielder has scored four in his first four games for City. 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester City (8*)

Stoke City will host Newcastle United as we'll conclude Week 6 of the English Premier League season. Neither team have impressed so far result-wise, but Stoke fought back the reigning champions Man City in Manchester 3-1 a couple of weeks ago, and they're fresh off a 2-1 win versus Sunderland in the Capital Cup. The home team's well worth the price in this fixture. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Size matters - Stoke should have a significant edge over Newcastle in the air. With the two most likely line-ups compared, Stoke have an average height of 6 feet, 2 inches, while Newcastle's averaging 5 feet, 11 inches. The home team's won 63% of their aerial duels this season, while Newcastle linger around the 50% mark. 

2. Road woes - The visitors have both failed to score in and lost six of their last seven games on the road in the EPL. They lost 4-0 at Southampton their last league game away from home.  

3. X-factor - Stoke's Peter Crouch may have the height of a basketball player, but the gangly striker has surprisingly good technique for a player of his size. He's scored one goal and has one assist to his name in five appearances, three starts, this season.  

Selection: This is a play on Stoke City (5*)

West Ham United will travel to Old Trafford on Saturday to try and bag three points versus the sleeping giants Manchester United. They must like their chances, especially with the Red Devils coming off a 5-3 loss at Leicester where their defense was shambolic. This is a great spot for United to bounce back in front of their own crowd though.

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. United's offense - With the signings of Di Maria and Danny Blind, manager Van Gaal has reverted back to a 4-3-3 formation rather than the 5-3-2 he was so successful with in the World Cup and started this season with. The Dutchman is trying to accommodate all his superstars, and it's been offensively successful with the team scoring nine goals in their last two games.  

2. Previous meetings - United are coming off a disappointing season, but even last year they managed to beat West Ham twice, 2-0 on the road and 3-1 at Old Trafford. 

3. X-factor - Robin Van Persie has been bleak so far, but scored his first goal for the season versus Leicester last week. When RVP gets going, "He scores when he wants" as the chant goes. 

Selection: This is a play on Manchester United FC (4*)

Liverpool will host Everton for the first Merseyside Derby of the season. Both teams have had a disappointing start to the season, but I think Liverpool are well worth the price today. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. The wings - Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman are two important parts in Everton's offense bombing down the wings from their wing back positions. They do leave space behind for the opponent to exploit though, and Liverpool have the tools to take advantage of that. Raheem Sterling is already looking like a World Class player at the age of 19, and has scored three goals with one assist in his five games so far.

2. History - The home team's 4-0 in the last eight meetings since 2010. Liverpool won last season's home game versus Everton by a score of 4-0. 

3. X-factor - Liverpool lost Luis Suarez for this campaign, but his replacement Mario Balotelli is a player who can do the unexpected as well. 

Selection: This is a play on Liverpool FC (8*)